Baltimore is a city with a bad reputation. It’s often depicted as a dangerous and seedy city to be avoided at all costs. But the real Baltimore is quite the opposite. It boasts a rich history, is packed with diverse cultural offerings, has an eclectic restaurant scene, and offers plenty of family-friendly fun.
But as with any big city, Baltimore has some really great neighborhoods and some that you should avoid. Which is exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Baltimore.
Written by our expert travel writers, this guide was put together with one thing in mind – to help YOU find the best place to stay in Baltimore based on your travel needs. We’ll show you exactly where to stay in Baltimore so you can enjoy the vacation of your dreams!
Here are our top picks for where to stay in Baltimore, Maryland.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Baltimore.
Downtown apartment with great connections | Best Airbnb in Baltimore
Airbnb in Baltimore offers a more personal touch. Don’t waste a second of precious time, or waste a cent on public transport thanks to the ideal location of this apartment. Fully stocked up with all of life’s modern conveniences and low price tag make this place a great base form which to explore Baltimore.
HI Baltimore | Best Hostel in Baltimore
The HI Baltimore is located at the heart of downtown. It is close to top tourist attractions and landmarks as well as restaurants, shops and bars. Built in a historic 19th-century mansion, this hostel has a large parlour, a dining room, a full kitchen and offers a free pancake breakfast. All of this combined is why this is our pick for the best hostel in Baltimore.
Inn at 2920 | Best Bed & Breakfast in Baltimore
The Inn at 2920 is our top pick for the best bed and breakfast in Baltimore. It is ideally located in Canton and is close to eateries, bistros, bars and clubs. This bed and breakfast has unique rooms with private bathrooms. There’s also a library and a delicious on-site restaurant.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is an elegant neighbourhood located just north of downtown. It is the cultural centre of the city and is where you’ll find an excellent selection of institutions and attractions, like the Walters Museum of Art and Tony Charles Street.
Downtown
Downtown is set in the centre of the city. It is a lively district that is home to Baltimore’s business district and the seat of city government and is where you’ll find some of the most iconic architecture in the city.
Inner Harbor
The Inner Harbor is without a doubt one of the best-known neighbourhoods in Baltimore. Set at the centre of the city, the Inner Harbor is a boisterous and energetic neighbourhood packed with shopping and entertainment as well as restaurants bars and pubs.
Baltimore is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state of Maryland. It is the largest city in Maryland and is a boisterous and bustling metropolis set on the Mid-Atlantic Coast.
For many years, Baltimore was portrayed in the media as a dangerous city with crime and drugs on every corner. But today, that’s not the case. Baltimore is known for its excellent seafood, continuous nightlife, temperate climate, and rich and diverse history, which make it a joy to explore any time of the year.
The city covers an area of 238 square kilometres. It is divided into a staggering number of official neighborhoods, each boasting diverse activities and attractions.
This guide will look at the must-sees in Baltimore’s five best neighborhoods.
Mount Vernon is an elegant neighborhood located just north of Baltimore city centre. It has a variety of cultural and historic institutions and is where history comes to life.
Travel south from here and you’ll arrive in downtown. Baltimore’s central business district and the seat of city government, downtown is where you’ll find great restaurants, plenty of shops and a good selection of budget accommodation options.
At the heart of Baltimore is the Inner Harbour. This lively and vibrant neighborhood is bursting with popular activities and attractions that will excite and entertain travellers of all ages. From great restaurants to animal attractions, there’s so much to see and do in the Inner Harbor.
Travel east from here to Fells Point. A former port and shipbuilding community, Fells Point is a quaint neighborhood with cobblestone streets and nautical charm – and it’s where you’ll find the best nightlife in Baltimore.
And finally, hip and trendy Canton is set on Baltimore’s east side. Once the city’s canning district, Canton is now a fashionable and popular area boasting unique boutiques and rustic eateries.
Still not sure where to stay in Baltimore? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Baltimore’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the best areas to stay in Baltimore, Maryland.
#1 Mount Vernon – Where to stay in Baltimore first time
Mount Vernon is an elegant neighborhood located just north of downtown. It is the cultural centre of the city and is where you’ll find an excellent selection of institutions and attractions, like the Walters Museum of Art and Tony Charles Street. A lively neighborhood with plenty to see and do, Mount Vernon is our top recommendation for where to stay in Baltimore for first-time visitors.
In addition to its rich history and diverse culture, Mount Vernon is a stylish neighborhood bursting with creative restaurants and relaxed bars. So whether you want history and culture, or food and fun, Mount Vernon has exactly what you’re looking for – and more!
Things to See and Do in Mount Vernon
- Browse the stacks at the Enoch Pratt Free Library.
- Dance the night away at the Grand Central Club.
- Enjoy an evening of amateur theatre at Spotlighters Theatre.
- Explore the Mount Vernon Cultural District.
- Feast on American fare at The Brewer’s Art.
- Marvel at the architecture of the George Peabody Library.
- Sample Middle Eastern dishes at The Helmand.
- See exquisite works of art at The Walters Art Museum.
- View more than 200,000 artefacts at the Maryland Historical Society.
- Visit the Washington Monument and take in the views of the city.
Midtown Inn Baltimore | Best Hotel in Mount Vernon
The Midtown Inn is our top choice if you’re looking for budget accommodations in Mount Vernon because it offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. This hotel is conveniently located for exploring the city and is close to restaurants, shops and popular tourist attractions.
Hotel Revival Baltimore A Joie de Vivre Hotel | Best Hotel in Mount Vernon
Large rooms and wonderful views are just two of the reasons we love this hotel. It also boasts an awesome location and is within walking distance of the Walters Art Museum and other top landmarks. This historic hotel has a fitness centre, free wifi and a golf course.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Baltimore Downtown | Best Hotel in Mount Vernon
This three-star hotel is our top choice for where to stay in Mount Vernon because of its incredibly convenient location. It allows for easy access throughout the city and is surrounded by eateries, bistros and boutiques. This hotel has a games room, a shopping mall, and an indoor pool.
Downtown apartment with great connections | Best Airbnb in Mount Vernon
Don’t waste a second of precious time, or waste a cent on public transport thanks to the ideal location of this apartment. Fully stocked up with all of life’s modern conveniences and low price tag make this place a great base form which to explore Baltimore.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Downtown – Where to stay in Baltimore on a budget
Downtown is set in the centre of the city. It is a lively district that is home to Baltimore’s business district and the seat of city government and is where you’ll find some of the most iconic architecture in the city.
This bustling district also has a good selection of affordable accommodation options, including excellent hostels and cosy bed and breakfast. Which is why it’s our pick for where to stay in Baltimore if you’re on a budget.
It should be noted that, unfortunately, this is not the nicest or safest area in the city. Most of the areas tourists would visit are relatively safe during the day. We recommend that you choose accommodations near the main tourist attractions so you won’t have to venture too far off the beaten path when exploring or staying downtown.
Things to See and Do in Downtown
- Enjoy a night out at Sonar.
- Grab a snack at the Hollywood Diner Backlot.
- Sample a variety of beers at Pratt Street Ale House.
- See the unique Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower.
- Shop for local goods at the Baltimore Farmers Market and Bazaar.
- Snack and sample your way through the Lexington Market.
- Visit the grave of Edgar Allan Poe.
- Watch a world-class performance at The Hippodrome Theatre.
La Quinta Inn & Suites Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown
This three-star hotel has 42 comfortable rooms. It offers a range of great amenities, including wifi, laundry, luggage storage and a gym. This hotel is within walking distance of the city’s top sightseeing, shopping, dining and nightlife options.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore Inner Harbour | Best Hotel in Downtown
Set in Baltimore’s vibrant downtown neighborhood, this is one of our favourite hotels in the city. It is set amongst popular restaurants, shops and bars. This four-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms and boasts a Jacuzzi, a gym, and a restaurant and bar.
Sweet little spot with awesome views | Best Airbnb in Downtown
Snatch up this cosy little apartment at a bargain-basement price, you’ll be laughing as you soak in the panoramic views of the city from your private rooftop terrace. The central location is ideal for exploring the city on foot.
HI Baltimore | Best Hostel in Downtown
The HI Baltimore is located at the heart of downtown. It is close to top tourist attractions and landmarks as well as restaurants, shops and bars. Built in a historic 19th-century mansion, this hostel has a large parlour, a dining room, a full kitchen and offers a free pancake breakfast. All of this combined is why this is our pick for where to stay in downtown.
#3 Fells Point – Best area to stay in Baltimore for nightlife
Fells Point is a buzzing and bustling neighborhood located to the east of the Inner Harbor. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city with some houses dating back to the 1700s. Once a lively port and shipbuilding community, Fells Point is known for its quaint cobblestone lanes and its 18th-century nautical charm.
This neighborhood is also our pick for where to stay in Baltimore for nightlife because of its live music scene, and vast array energetic pubs, taverns and bars. If you’re looking to enjoy a few drinks and an unforgettable night on the town, there’s no better place to stay than Baltimore’s Fells Point.
Things to See and Do in Fells Point
- Catch a performance by The Vagabond Players.
- Dance to catchy beats at the Latin Palace.
- Dine on American fare at Ale Mary’s.
- Drink whiskey at Birds of a Feather.
- Don’t miss the chance to eat at Amiccis.
- Eat fresh and delicious sushi at Sticky Rice.
- Enjoy good drinks and great food at Myth and Moonshine.
- Grab a drink at Cat’s Eye Pub, one of the oldest establishments in Fells Point.
- See your favourite films outdoors by checking out Films on the Pier.
- Visit The Horse You Can In On, one of America’s oldest continuously operating saloons.
1840s Carrollton Inn | Best Bed & Breakfast in Fells Point
This bed and breakfast make for a fantastic base for your time in Baltimore. It has spacious and comfortable rooms that come complete with kitchenettes and refrigerators. Guests can enjoy access to laundry facilities, a games room and free wifi. A delicious breakfast is also available.
Admiral Fell Inn | Best Hotel in Fells Point
The Admiral Fell Inn is our pick for where to stay in Fells Point because of its excellent location close to bars, restaurants an shops. It is also within walking distance of downtown and the Inner Harbour. Comprised of 80 charming rooms, this hotel has a sauna, free wifi, on-site restaurant.
Fairfield Inn & Suites | Best Hotel in Fells Point
This three-star hotel is located in the centre of the city and is conveniently situated for sightseeing, dining and drinking. Rooms are spacious and each is outfitted with contemporary amenities and a kitchenette. This hotel offers free wifi and has a sauna, fitness centre and a golf course.
Great local for bars and music | Best Airbnb in Fells Point
With views across the harbour and overlooking the city, as well as balcony complete with dining area, this place has a lot of atmosphere on offer. You’ll be spoilt for choice of nighttime adventures with the huge range of bars and music venues close by
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Canton – Coolest place to stay in Baltimore
If you’re someone who likes to be where the cool kids are, look no further than Canton. This hip residential neighborhood hugs the harbour and sits on the southeastern edge of downtown. It’s where you’ll find a myriad of upscale boutiques tucked alongside hip bars and rustic restaurants. This is why Canton is our top pick for the coolest neighborhood in Baltimore.
Canton is also a great place to satiate your appetite. This neighborhood is home to world-class restaurants and charming eateries that serve creative, innovative and delicious dishes from around the world.
Things to See and Do in Canton
- Eat, drink and enjoy a great night at Annabel Lee Tavern.
- Enjoy everything from music and art to films and dance at the Creative Alliance.
- Grab drinks at the Mahaffey’s Pub.
- Indulge in American dishes at the Blue Hill Tavern.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in Patterson Park.
- Pub hop your way around lively O’Donnell square.
- Root for the home team while downing a pint at Cardinal Tavern.
- Sing your heart out at Walt’s Inn.
- Snack on American pub fare at Of Love and Regret.
- Take in the views at the Canton Waterfront Park.
Private bed & bath in a homestay | Best Airbnb in Canton
An affordable room with its own ensuite close to the bay. Great for culture vultures looking so soak up some of Baltimore’s rustic americana charm, or enjoy the vibrant cafe culture in the suburb.
Executive Inn Baltimore | Best Motel in Canton
The Executive Inn is a charming motel located in the Canton neighborhood. It is comprised of 25 rooms with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. This hotel is centrally located and is close to museums, art galleries, shops and eateries. You won’t find a better budget base for your time in Canton.
Global Luxury Suites at Brewers Hill | Best Hotel in Canton
This property offers comfortable and spacious apartments, perfect for your time in Baltimore. It has a variety of features, including a BBQ area, a terrace, free wifi and much more. Each room is well-equipped with air conditioning and includes a dining area, kitchen and private bathroom.
Inn at 2920 | Best bed & breakfast in Canton
The Inn at 2920 is our top pick for where to stay in Canton. It is ideally located in the city and is close to eateries, bistros, bars and clubs. This bed and breakfast has unique rooms with private bathrooms. There’s also a library and a delicious on-site restaurant.
#5 Inner Harbor – Best neighborhood in Baltimore for families
The Inner Harbor is without a doubt one of the best-known neighborhoods in Baltimore. Set at the centre of the city, the Inner Harbor is a boisterous and energetic neighborhood packed with shopping and entertainment as well as restaurants bars and pubs. It’s where you can enjoy everything from a great meal and a refreshing pint to stunning views of the Patapsco River.
This neighborhood is also our top recommendation for where to stay in Baltimore for families because it is bursting with family-friendly fun. From the National Aquarium to Camden Yards, the Inner Harbour is a neighborhood that travellers of all ages will love.
Things to See and Do in Inner Harbor
- Browse the three floors of interactive exhibits and programs at Port Discovery Children’s Museum.
- Cheer on the National Football League’s Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium.
- Climb to the Top of the World and enjoy panoramic views of Baltimore and beyond.
- Delve deep into the world of science and technology at the Maryland Science Center.
- Explore the restaurants, bars and galleries at Power Plant Live.
- Root for Major League Baseball’s Orioles at Camden Yards.
- See more than 20,000 sea creatures and aquatic animals at the National Aquarium.
- Step back in time at the Baltimore Civil War Museum.
- Tour the USS Constellation.
Brookshire Suites Inner Harbor | Best Hotel in Inner Harbor
A great location, wonderful views and spacious rooms are just a few of the reasons we love this hotel! This three-star property is ideally located near the city’s top tourist attractions. Each stylish room has a variety of essential amenities. Guests can also enjoy the modern in-house gym.
Days Inn by Wyndham Baltimore | Best Hotel in Inner Harbor
Set in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, this three-star hotel is located within walking distance of the National Aquarium, Camden Yards and plenty of restaurants and cafes. This hotel has spacious rooms with modern amenities. It also boasts a swimming pool, a gym, and a golf course.
Awesome apartment with loads of extras | Best Airbnb in Inner Harbor
You’ll never have a dull moment with this apartment. A game of giant chess with panoramic views, indoor basket ball court, and easy walking distance to all the cities major museums and attractions, this apartment is ideal for a group looking to squeeze in the most to there time in Baltimore.
Hotel RL Baltimore Inner Harbor | Best Hostel in Inner Harbor
This is our top pick for where to stay in the vibrant Inner Harbor. It is close to Baltimore’s main sightseeing, shopping and dining options. This stylish hotel has 130 historic rooms that are well-equipped with a range of amenities. Guests can also enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Baltimore
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Baltimore and where to stay.
What To Pack For Baltimore
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Baltimore
Baltimore is an excellent city with so much to offer travellers. It is so much safer than it is depicted in the media and is definitely worth a visit. Boasting everything from a rich history and diverse culture to amazing food and great nightlife, Baltimore is a city with something for travellers of all ages, interest and budget.
In this post, we’ve looked at the best areas to stay in Baltimore. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here’s a quick recap of our favourite places.
HI Baltimore is our favourite hostel because it is close to top sightseeing, dining, shopping and nightlife options.
The Inn at 2920 is our favourite bed and breakfast because it is ideally located in Canton and offers a delicious breakfast to guests.
If you are planning a road trip or you’re looking for more rural locations, you’ll find many cool cabins in Maryland in the nature spots outside Baltimore, too!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Baltimore instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
